Snow Dog
not part of a series
What’s inside...
In the book by Malorie Blackman, Nicky desperately wants a dog, but his parents are against the idea. His Granddad suggests they create a snow-dome dog using special clay found at the end of a rainbow, making it extra-special and possibly even magical. The story is part of the Colour First Readers series, which includes notes by reading specialist Prue Goodwin to assist new readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the dog feels when it snows? Can you describe what its day might be like?
Why do you think the characters in the book made a snow dog? What does the snow dog represent to them?
If you could create anything out of snow, what would it be and why?
How did the story make you feel when the snow started to melt? What would you do if you were in the story?
What are some ways the characters show kindness and teamwork in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider the emotions and perspectives of both the human characters and the snow dog.
Foster creativity by prompting them to imagine their own snow creations and discuss the importance of imagination highlighted in the book.
Ask your child how the story relates to their own experiences with friendship and cooperation, reinforcing the themes of teamwork.
Discuss the feelings associated with change and impermanence, using the melting of the snow dog as a starting point.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Snow Dog', when Nicky finds a lost dog in the snow and decides to care for it, readers see the importance of understanding and empathizing with others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing kindness and care when someone or a pet is in need, helping them understand the impact of their actions on others.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The story depicts Nicky taking on the responsibility of caring for the dog, feeding it, and keeping it warm, thereby teaching the importance of being responsible for other living beings.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take responsibility for their pets, tasks, or in team activities, building a foundation for accountable behavior as they grow.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Nicky faces the challenge of figuring out what to do with a lost dog, showcasing how tackling unexpected problems can be managed with thoughtful actions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and develop solutions when they encounter challenges, be it in their studies, friendships, or daily tasks.
Example Lesson: Compassion and Kindness
Explanation: Through the narrative, the act of rescuing and caring for the dog under harsh conditions highlights the values of compassion and kindness.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to be compassionate not only towards animals but also towards people, fostering a more caring and inclusive community.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Helping
Explanation: Nicky's experience of helping the lost dog brings him happiness, illustrating that helping others can be a source of joy.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to help others, understanding that their actions can bring happiness to themselves and those around them.